Taking the GMAT few days before MBA application deadline, is it safe?

It is usually just fine to take the GMAT a day before the deadline. Usually schools do not require to have an official report at the submission, they just need a score that they will later verify against the official system so as long as you have taken your test before the deadline, you will be fine for most programs.

I should probably mention that while it’s not a problem for the schools, it’s not a great strategy if everything is happening at the same time on the last day. Things are bound to get messed up and the quality of the applications is bound to be questionable. Of course if that’s the cards you have been dealt then you play with what you got and you won’t be the only one sending in your scores right before the deadline.

You can of course do some research just to be safe, and check the application instructions about the AWA score reporting And if you don’t find anything you can always contact the Adcom to clarify. It’s nothing special. They get this question quite often but you can probably make it sound better if you say you giving one more shot or that due to business travel or availability you have to schedule it at that time.

Good luck!

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Your questions pertains to MBA programs and there are some helpful pointers above. You should always confirm with programs, if possible. Generally, it is possible to take the exam just before before the deadlines, but there are exceptions.

Requirements will be somewhat different for non-MBA programs. For example, PhD programs differ in their requirements. It is generally safe to indicate the test date that will fall before the deadline.

There are variations. Some programs need to receive the complete official scores by the deadline. Some others will be fine with incomplete scores. Usually, the AWA score will be incomplete and since these programs tend to mainly look at the Q and V scores, having an incomplete AWA score may not result in dismissal of the application. If possible, self report the scores you have available.

However, if either the admission committees meet very soon after the deadlines or they look at applications on rolling basis, incomplete applications will be at disadvantage. Please be aware of the differences in programs.

Hi snowpark,

While it should not be an issue to submit your unofficial GMAT score to your desired schools, I suggest that you reach out to the folks in admissions to get a definitive answer to your question.